After placing the focus on his own work over the last 18 years, former Soul Coughing frontman and solo wordsmith, Mike Doughty is making a quick trip around the Northeast to turn back the clocks and perform the alternative rock group’s ‘Irresistible Bliss’ for a total of seven dates.
You’d figure by the time he notched The Heart Watches While the Brain Burns, his ninth solo album since 2000, Doughty would settle into his ways and follow a musical pattern. Simply, that’s just not the way he operates. Always diving into and exploring new sounds, the ever-growing artist and former front man is constantly taking chances on new styles and setting personal deadlines of crafting and recording original music as often as possible.
From country crooning to hard hitting beats and even a 2015 rock opera by the name Revelation, it’s clear Doughty doesn’t rely on one-track mind of creativity. Instead, he chooses from a bank of ideas in his head and decides how he wants it to translate to the public. Appealing to his roots, An Evening with Mike Doughty performing Soul Coughing’s Irresistible Bliss with Andrew “Scrap” Livingston launched on March 22 in Portland, ME before heading to a sold out gig in Boston. Having just made his way through NJ and MD, Doughty finds himself in NY from March 28 to 30, playing for crowds each night in Pawling’s Daryl’s House, Homer Center for the Arts and Albany’s the Linda, respectively.
Based out of Albany, this progressive folk group blends genres and in a live setting the band turns their focus towards the audience having a great time. In an interview with Charlie Burgess (guitar, vocals), the various rounds of March Madness were a testament to the hard work the band has put in to connect with fans across the state. “Whether out in the Finger Lakes or Woodstock where fans have been especially kind, up to the North Country in Plattsburgh, Keeseville and other spots, getting back to home in Albany, it’s great to see fans coming out in your hometown after returning back from shows, that’s meant a lot to us.”
With a new album due out in June, Black Mountain Symphony mixes up their upbeat bluegrass and adjust their set for a full energy show each time. “As we write new songs and new covers to plug in, we fill gaps in our set where the momentum could be going even longer, so we write new songs that fill that gap. What we’ve found that fans who are getting into the dancin’ stuff they also dig the slow stuff,” Burgess shared with NYS Music.
Skillet drummer and vocalist, Jen Ledger, has shown her various talents behind the drum kit and on the mic during her run with the band. Now those talents will be showcased on even a higher level as she plans to release her first solo EP titled Ledger.
Never doubting on using her talents to one day make a solo album, many fans and music insiders thought that Ledger would first unite with other very talented female musicians in rock music and form a female “super group,” with the likes of Halestorm frontwoman Lzzy Hale, Sick Puppies bassist Emma Anzai, and Skillet bandmate Korey Cooper. Ledger, will be released on Atlantic Records on April 13. Skillet keyboardist and guitarist Korey Cooper, helped produce the EP with well known Nashville writer/producer Seth Moseley.
In a recent Billboard article, Ledger shared her excitement about the upcoming project: “I feel I’ve just been growing and changing over the last few years and I feel the time is now. It just feels like everything is lined up all at once. It’s super exciting because it is a little bit of a destiny moment.”
Ledger credits her Skillet bandmates John and Korey Cooper for helping her find her own sound while mentoring her though the process.
Atlantic Records President of A&R Pete Ganbarg, spoke highly of Legder’s talents from knowing her over the past decade:
From when I started working with Skillet 10 years ago, I was immediately impressed with how vibrant and talented Jen Ledger is. Her voice is so unique — and has become such an identifiable part of Skillet’s sound — that we’ve waited for most of the past decade for the moment when she would finally be ready to release her own music. What she’s been working on with John and Korey Cooper, as well as with Seth Moseley and others, shows that the wait has definitely been worth it.
Now that Ledger’s solo career is on the way, many Skillet fans are worried that her days in Skillet will soon be a memory, but the singer/songwriter has no plans on leaving the band. In fact, Ledger will pull double duty, and open shows for Skillet’s upcoming spring “Unleashed” tour starting on April 12, with her backing band, then head behind the kit for Skillet’s performance to close shows. Ledger was asked if she planned on leaving Skillet: “We’re all on the same team and we’re all kind of mixed into everything. John is actually going to be singing on one of my songs and Korey is co-producing all of it and writing it with me, so it’s ridiculously perfect. I get to do everything I want and have the best of both worlds.”
Ponder, one of the many rising bands from Buffalo, has five shows lined up this spring with their revamped lineup and sound. Featuring Gabriel Birkby (guitar, vocals), Andy Hogan (bass, vocals), Trevor Jennings (drums) and Paul Sottnik (keys), this jamtronica band that got its start at SUNY Geneseo is making waves out in WNY and recently released audio of “Masks” from their supporting spot with BIG Something on February 13.
Andy Hogan shares the excitement behind the revamped Ponder:
“We’re gearing up to get back to our favorite spots in WNY and looking forward to branching out even further throughout the state — each gig is going to be a bit different in terms of both the sound and the line-up. We’re super fortunate to have an army of musicians who are down to hop on stage with us while we continue to finalize a line-up after revamping the band in February 2018. This spring through the summer is packed with shows so far, and with the addition of our manager, Chelsea O’Donnell, we now have more time than ever to focus on writing and recording as we hope to have a new record out real soon.”
Bronx rapper A Boogie Wit Da Hoodie has teamed up with emerging music discovery platform Audiomack to remake three of his smash hits with a professional orchestra for the Trap Symphony video series. The latest installment of the series is a rework of chart topper “Drowning,” joining orchestral versions of A Boogie hits “Say A” and “No Promises.”
Joined by a nine-piece orchestra, A Boogie takes center stage as he dives into a classical rendition of his most popular single to date. Playing off the single’s opening piano chords, the Trap Symphony rendition of “Drowning” captures the emotive composition that brings new life to the track through composer John Clearly, who added a additional layers giving the song a richer depth. This particular Trap Symphony emphasizes A Boogie’s artistic versatility as he adapts to a more subdued performance style versus rambunctious performances fans have become accustomed to.
David Ponte, AudiomackCo-Founder and Trap Symphony co-creator said of the series “…the purpose of Trap Symphony is to showcase a vocalist’s talent and emphasize their unique skill set over an unexpected musical backdrop. With the Trap Symphony series, artists prove that they can go toe-to-toe with classically trained musicians and create something that is sonically beautiful and unique.”
Starting in 2015, the Trap Symphony series kicked off with mega-star trio Migos who reimagined their hits “Hannah Montana,” “One Time,” and “Handsome & Wealthy.” Fans of Trap Symphony can view each edition of the project, as well as additional content, via Audiomack’s recently launched platform audiomack.world, which highlights content, artists, and cultural tastemakers.
British electro-funk act Jamiroquai announced their first New York show in more than a decade. The recently-reunited group will perform at Forest Hills Stadium in Queens on September 8. They have been touring the world to promote their new album Automaton, and will be playing Coachella next month. A full list of dates they will play are available on the Jamiroquai website and tickets for the show at Forest Hills Stadium, Queens, NYC go on sale Friday, March 23 at 10 a.m.
If you’re in New York City this week, you should consider checking out one of the upcoming shows from Girl Ray. The London-based group features Poppy Hanking on guitar/vocals, Iris McConnell on drums, and Sophie Moss on bass. They started the group two years ago as teenagers going to school in North London and now they’re on their first tour in the U.S.
Poppy’s songwriting is influenced by pop artists like ABBA and The Beatles and indie artists like Neutral Milk Hotel. Their newest album, which cleverly rhymes with their band name, is called Earl Grey. The vinyl version album is sold out on Bandcamp, but listeners may still enjoy online or on Spotify. They recorded the album at Ramsgate’s Big Jelly Studios and they claimed they little crazy during the process giving it their all. The organ sounds throughout give it a full texture coupled with the distorted guitar. The vocal harmonies are fragile and exciting to listen to.
The girls are still teenagers, and their sound reflects the uncertainty young adults feel as they move through life and have to make important decisions. They’re just what young listeners need to hear in terms of heartbreak and losing friendships. Their music videos are a bit quirky and show their individual personalities.
After a stop in Washington DC, you can catch them at the Music Hall of Williamsburg on March 23rd in Brooklyn, The Bowery Ballroom on the 24th in Manhattan, and back again in Brooklyn on the 25th at Union Pool.
Dubstep DJ DATSIK is the next celebrity in the midst of sexual assault allegations as stories have started to circulate on social media about the 29-year-old Canadian DJ/producer, causing him to cancel the remaining shows on his tour and step down from his record label.
Datsik, real name Troy Beetles, is accused of raping multiple women after giving them alcohol and drugs such as ketamine after they received backstage passes to meet the DJ after his shows on his tour bus or hotel room, where he would then allegedly force himself on them.
The passes that had the word “Tulsa,” written on them were handed to women. It’s said that “Tulsa,” stands for “aslut,” backwards. A female fan posted a pass she got from a show two years ago, and some fans said that they received similar passes when he performed in Syracuse at the Westcott Theater a few weeks back.
Since the news broke, fans have been leaving many negative comments about the EDM artist on his recent Facebook posts. After a Las Vegas show post, one fan wrote “How many girls did you drug at this show???” Another fan wrote, “When you pull yourself from shows because you can’t give out any more “TUL$A” passes to girls and have sex with them.”
Feeling the heat, Datsik took to his Facebook page and posted: “The last 24 hours have been a whirlwind of emotion and reflection. In light of the recent allegations against me, I am cancelling all the remaining tour dates and pulling myself off all future festivals. To anyone who has supported me, has faith in me or has offered to help me, I thank you.”
Since the news broke, Datsik was forced to cancel the remaining dates on his tour, while stepping down from his record label Firepower Records. Firepower co-owner and label manager Sharra Grace, will take over all operations.
After he stepped down from his label amid the allegations, Firepower Records stated: “Firepower does not tolerate sexual assault under any circumstances and we are utterly devastated by these statements that have come to light.”
Datsik claims he is innocent and several fans have shown support for him by getting into a social media war of words with other fans. In a recent report on Syracuse.com, Datsik posted the following statement about his innocence:
Yo everyone. This is a very serious matter to me… There have been recent allegations against me for things I have not done. I am a vibe reader, I hang out with a ton of people after every show, and always keep a positive vibe. I would never bend anyone against their will and I mean that.
I’m an adult, I’ve seen and been thru it all. But these claims are shaking me to the core. This type of s— is detrimental to my persona as I truly take pride in being myself and being honest. I want everyone to know that I am being the best Datsik I can… It really breaks my heart when people feel upset at the end of the day because I am a good person and would never take advantage of anyone. This is my life and my passion as I know it. I care so much about my fans and my music and what you all think of me. I will make a bigger effort to make sure that nothing I do will be misinterpreted in the future.
The seventh annual Rochester Music Hall of Fame Induction Ceremony takes place at Rochester’s Eastman Theatre at 7 pm on April 22, 2018. Among those being honored this year are percussionist and composer John Beck, Sacred Steel band The Campbell Brothers, drummer Steve Gadd, bassist Tony Levin, and Emmy-nominated composer Ferdinand Jay Smith. Guest performers include members of the band L’Image and Grammy-winner Robert Randolph. More musical guests will be announced. Prime Time Funk will perform as the official Hall of Fame house band. Tickets are on sale now.
Steve Gadd is hailed as one of the most accomplished and skilled drummers of his generation. Born in the suburbs of Rochester, Gadd took up drums when he was seven years old. When he was 11, he sat in with Dizzy Gillespie, launching a lifetime of work with some of the greatest artists of our era. He has performed in studio and on tour with iconic artists such as Paul Simon, James Taylor, and Eric Clapton. He continues to make music in conjunction with other artists and with the Steve Gadd Band. His work in the field of percussion has inspired generations to follow. Chick Corea once commented, “Every drummer wants to play like Gadd because he plays perfect…He has brought orchestral and compositional thinking to the drum kit while at the same time having a great imagination and a great ability to swing.”
Bassist Tony Levin was born in Boston, but moved to Rochester to study at Eastman School of Music, where he studied under the great Igor Stravinsky. After meeting fellow student Steve Gadd, he traded upright bass for electric bass. After playing in several New York bands, he was offered the opportunity to tour with Peter Gabriel in 1977. He still plays in the Peter Gabriel Band, and along the way has become a member of such acts as King Crimson, Stick Men, and Levin Brothers. He has authored books containing photographs he has taken throughout his career, and a book of poetry and lyrics.
Percussionist and composer John Beck has been teaching at Eastman School of Music for six decades, and currently serves as Professor Emeritus of Percussion. His work has led him to perform around the world, and has earned him numerous accolades, including Lifetime Achievement Awards from prestigious organizations here and abroad. At the induction ceremony, Beck will perform solo as well as with a percussion ensemble and the Hall of Fame house band Prime Time Funk.
Sacred steel band The Campbell Brothers features Chuck Campbell on pedal steel guitar, Phillip Campbell on electric guitar and bass, Darick Campbell on lap steel, and Carlton Campbell on drums. From their humble beginnings as the house band for a House of God Church, they have been invited to bring their gospel music to such venerable music halls Hollywood Bowl, The Kennedy Center, and Brooklyn Academy of Music. Their work is now being featured in the Sacred Steel exhibit at the Smithsonian National Museum of African American Heritage and Culture.
Ferdinand Jay Smith’s impressive resume includes his work at Jay Advertising, his early career as a radio DJ and manager of musicians, and a list of credits in the music industry for movies and television. The Emmy-nominated composer is best known for his theme songs for the HBO feature presentation, the CBS movie of the week, NHL Tonight, and the musical themes for the 1980 and 1988 Olympics. A musical medley and video presentation will celebrate Smith’s contribution to music in the entertainment industry.
With the first weekend of the Big Dance in the books (and Syracuse busting brackets left and right), we are now at the Final Four of NYS Music’s 2018 March Madness! Two weeks ago, we started with 64 up and coming artists from across the Empire State, and now there are four vying to take it all in our friendly tournament-style competition.
These artists who hail from the Empire State are a sampling of the next generation of artists and come from all corners of the state, from Buffalo to Binghamton, Plattsburgh to Patchogue and all points in between. Vote now for your favorites and discover some of the great up and coming music that New York State has to offer!
Winner of the Putnam Place division, Black Mountain Symphony showcases an eclectic range of influences, blended together to create their own special sound. From baroque classical violin and haunting folk-tinged ballads to funk-rock drums and hard-hitting dance numbers, the six-piece band sprinkles their live sets with hints of everything from classical music to bits of Motown, blues and jazz. Black Mountain Symphony performs both intimate acoustic shows as well as intense, full-band rock shows. Upcoming shows include April 6 The Colony in Woodstock, and on May 18 Flyday Music Festival in East Durham, NY.
Candy Ambulance is the winner of the Anthology division. Formed in the summer of 2014, grunge-influenced Candy Ambulance of Upstate NY are Caitlin Barker, Jesse Bolduc & Jon Cantiello. Lifelong friends and musical mates Bolduc & Cantiello rescued Barker from a wealthy engagement prospect and whisked her away to the land of DIY punk. Poppy melodies, dynamic vocal changes and half-naked live shows have solidified this rock trio as always entertaining, unabashed fun. Boasting a healthy and frequent tour schedule the band has played with notable acts such as Screaming Females, Speedy Ortiz, Daddy Issues, and Dorothy. Their next show is on March 30 during Troy Night Out at River Street Pub with The Death Vacation and Sun Natives.
CEG Presents’ division winner is ShwizZ, a unique cast of characters reigning from downstate New York. Best described as a melting pot of funk and progressive rock, this giant original sound will be sure to put a smile on your face. The band’s variety and depth allows for lovely twists of improvisation and spontaneity spiked with technical prowess and musical complexity. Over the years the group has shared bills with many notables including Jeff Beck, Primus, Jordan Rudess (Dream Theater), Kung Fu, Dopapod, Consider The Source and more. ShwizZ can be found gigging all over the northeast and you won’t be surprised to find them playing at your favorite festival or club for years to come. Their next show is on April 11 with The Mushroom Cloud & Stubbs at Wonder Bar in Allston, MA.
Final Four voting begins at 10AM EST on Monday, March 19, and closes at midnight on Wednesday, March 21. The Championship round begins at 10AM EST on Thursday, March 22. Vote now for your favorites and discover some of the great up and coming music that New York State has to offer!
Space Bacon